Over 55,000 runners are lacing up their sneakers for the 54th annual New York City Marathon today. According to Gothamist, with clear skies and cool mid-50s temperatures forecasted, the city expects around two million spectators to line the streets in support. Those hoping to navigate the city by car might want to reconsider; numerous road closures across the five boroughs could turn a simple drive into a test of patience.
As the runners prepare for the physical feat ahead, carb-loading has become a pre-marathon ritual for many, including first-timer Elizabeth Roseman. "I think it's such an impressive accomplishment. You don't want to let yourself down, or other people you've been working with or training with, so you really want to kind of go out there and show your best and get through it," Roseman told ABC7NY. Restaurants like Parm on the Upper West Side saw a surge of patrons, as runners fueled up with pasta and camaraderie on the eve of the marathon.
With the roads slated for closures, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch emphasized a "large, visible police presence" including helicopters and drones is being deployed to ensure safety. Despite no credible threats, strict security measures near the finish line in Central Park will see bag inspections, and the prohibition of weapons, coolers, and large bags. Runners making their way through the course will result in the shuttering of access to several bridges and streets at staggered times throughout the day, as listed by Gothamist.
It's not just about personal achievement for these marathon warriors, many participate for causes close to their hearts. Madison Rausch, running with 'Team for Kids', combines her passion for helping children with the endurance challenge. "I work with kids. I'm a physician's assistant in pediatric emergency medicine so I felt it kind of fit perfectly with the charity and my kind of passion so I decided to go for it" Rausch said in an interview with ABC7NY. Indeed, the motivations are as diverse as the runners themselves, with some, like David Burke who started running after losing his mother, finding solace and purpose in the cadence of their strides.
For all those waiting to reunite with runners post-race, areas around Central Park West will see closures to accommodate the expected gatherings. Participant supporters can find their marathoners on designated streets, organized alphabetically by last names, indicating that logistics are very much a part of the marathon experience for runners and spectators alike. The event is officially set to conclude at 10 p.m., at which point, roads are expected to be clear, and the pulse of the city will begin to normalize, until next year's call to the starting line.
